Why a professional head shot will help to secure you work?
Professional, studio style head shots - lots of us question if we really need them. Do people actually notice if my LinkedIn profile picture is slick? What if I change my appearance? Does it matter if the photo is taken inside or outside? There are lots of things to consider if you are self-employed, working for a small business or start up, and even if you work in a large corporate office.
Regardless of your working role, the simple answer is yes- an up to date head shot will place you at an advantage. It will help to draw in potential employers, clients, and like-minded professionals to your brand or yourself. So, what next? We are here to help you to see what kind of shoot will work for you!
Indoors or outdoors?
Knowing whether to opt for an outdoor or indoor shoot is a great place to start when considering updating your current selection of personal photographs. To answer this question, ask yourself- who is your audience? Who are the people most likely to network with you? Who are the people you want to draw in and network with?
For example, a small baking business might opt to do a shoot indoors by an open window with natural light coming through. Why? It is reflective of an energised bakery space and inspires a sense of social energy. On the counter, an up and coming technology start up might opt for an indoor office shoot. Think modern furniture with casual but intentional creative shots. These businesses are marketing to a different audience, so the shoot is adjusted to suit the type of business they are hoping to draw in. So, have a think about who YOU are within your business, or what kind of story you are wanting to tell. This will help you to select the right kind of setting for your shoot.
Okay, I’ve decided on a location. But what do I wear?
Working in an office? For women, a simple, block coloured shirt that is well pressed (think a navy blue linen top, an emerald green silk shirt or a soft charcoal blouse) is perfect for a head shot. You don’t want something with too many details or patterns - we want the focus to be on your face (even if you love that quirky shirt in your wardrobe)! For the gents - we recommend a well pressed dress shirt or polo shirt in a muted colour that works well with your skin.
If you freelance or work in a more creative field, there is option for more exploration here. Think about what you would wear when greeting a client for the first time; this is what you want to reflect in your shoot.
Regardless of your workspace, feeling comfortable and confident in your outfit of choice is a great place to start.
Great, outfit set. What about my hair/make up?
For women, the ideal presentation would be looking like you’ve just left the hairdresser! Having clean hair is essential, and a fresh blow dry will help you to get your best shot. Adding a bit of volume, slicking back fly always, and ensuring nothing will fall in yours eyes is also important. Half up, half down hair styles are great, or if you want to have your hair out, tuck half behind one of your shoulders. For men, style your hair as you would if you were going in for a meeting with your boss. Washed, a little bit of product, and tucked away from the face is suitable.
As for make-up, embrace how you look naturally as it’s going to be the best representation of you! A little bit of mascara and colour to your lips and cheeks can go a long way, but nothing too bold. A fresh faced glow is always eye catching for an online head shot.
Okay, now I’m feeling ready to go! Anything else to remember?
Below are a few extra ways to make the most of your shoot so you feel confident in your investment in these photos!
• Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the shoot so your skin is feeling fresh and glowing!
• Get a good night sleep the night prior so your eyes look awake and energised.
• Ensure your clothes are ironed, pressed, and are feeling comfortable. You don’t want to feel uncomfortable in a shirt that’s too tight!
• Keep jewellery to a minimum- this will keep the focus on your face and general presentation.
• Take a few deep breaths before entering your session. When we are nervous, tension can build in the shoulders and jaw, so relaxing these muscles will help your photographer to capture the best photo of you!
• Don’t be afraid to ask to look at the photos throughout your shoot. Most head shots will be from the middle of your body up, but having a quick look at your photos as the session progresses will help you to see if there are any small adjustments you would like to make to your outfit, hair, or make up. There is flexibility for you to make some suggestions to your photographer, too! Be open with your photographer and they will deliver what you need to feel confident with the investment you are making in yourself.
We are here to bring out the best of YOU in your next head shot session. Enquire today to see how we can help to showcase your brand in the best light, or simply to invest in yourself and be a step above the rest in getting some photographs for your own professional portfolio. Happy shooting!
